Official: Abdel-Zaher swapped to Libya for Ahmed Raouf

Two deals were announced today between Al Ahly and Al-Ittihad (Tripoli) as Ahmed Raouf joined the Cairo giants while exiled Abdel-Zaher moved to Libya.

Striker Ahmed Abdel-Zaher signed for Al-Ittihad (Tripoli) on a six-month loan while Ahmed Raouf heads in the opposite direction signing for three and a half years.

Abdel-Zaher loaned

Abdel-Zaher was expected to leave Al Ahly following the events of the CAF Champions League final when he celebrated his goal with a Rabaa Salute, something Al Ahly’s board did not take lightly.

28-year-old Abdel-Zaher commented on the transfer saying: “I will spend the period of my loan with the Libyan team as the continuation of the Egyptian Premier League is not granted. I will become tactically and physically fit then I will return to Al Ahly.”

“Al Ittihad competes on the Libyan league, something which encouraged me to accept their offer. I will do my best during this time,” he added.

Ahmed Raouf signing long overdue

As for Ahmed Raouf, it was a free transfer as the former ENPPI striker gave up on his late dues to join Al Ahly.

Raouf said that his transfer to Al Ahly is 10 years late: “Al Ahly have negotiated with me when I was a player for Qannah. I was so close [to joining] but the attempts were unsuccessful.”

The 31-year-old expressed his delight about joining his new club, saying: “It is a dream come true. I realize how much pressure is on me now but I am willing to make Al Ahly fans happy.”

Raouf’s signing is expected to enhance Al Ahly’s offense which has received a big blow by the injury to Emad Meteb in Al Ahly’s league opener and the ruling out of Abdel Zaher; not to mention Abou-Treika’s retirement.

AhlyInfo are a fan-based team covering the latest news surrounding Al Ahly SC on KingFut.com. You can follow them on Twitter @AhlyInfo.